The most popular and unusual dog names in Franklin County this year
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – The Franklin County Auditor’s Office has revealed the most popular and unusual local dog names of 2024.
The list of the most popular names was derived from Franklin County dog license applications. The top name of the year was Bella, with 1,622 registered dogs in Franklin County bearing that name. Bella also reigned as the most popular name in 2023.
The second-most popular name was Lucy (1,147), followed by Max (1,025), Daisy (971) and Charlie (942).
The auditor’s office also revealed the most uncommon dog names in the county, which included Stamp Von Smush Smucher the First, Socks the Wonder Dog, Phoenix Rising from The Ashes, Sir Earl of Clevenger and Puck Stanley Cup Morgan. Only one dog was registered under each name.
Ohio State-inspired names remained common, with 409 dogs named Brutus and 202 named Buckeye. Names sourced from anime, specifically from “The Dragon Ball” franchise, were also popular this year, with eight dogs named Goku, five named Piccolo, two named Trunks and two named Gohan.
The anime “One Piece” may have also been an inspiration for a handful of names, including Luffy (4), Zoro (4) and Nami (4), the auditor’s office said. Another television series-related name on the list was Gargamayle, the villain of “Smurfs,” with two dogs bearing the name.
The top five breeds of 2024 included mixed breeds (10,089), golden retrievers (2,632), Labrador retrievers (2,621), pit bulls (2,492) and German shepherds (2,359).
In Franklin County, dog licenses must be renewed annually between Dec. 1 and Jan. 31. In addition to being required by state law, dog licenses ensure that if a dog is lost they are quickly returned to their owner, the auditor’s office said. Licensing fees also support the Franklin County Dog Shelter.
Owners can purchase or renew a dog’s license here or at the Franklin County Auditor’s office license counter, located at 373 S. High St. on the 21st floor. Counter hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.